“And this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also — through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at God’s right hand …” (1 Peter 3:21,22a)
Read 1 Peter 3:18–22.
Peter is writing to people who are in exile and suffering persecution, just as Noah and his family were exiled on the ark. God was to enact judgement on the people, and the ark on the water was the means of salvation from this judgement for Noah and his family. The readers were fellow believers, and they knew of Noah and the importance water played in their salvation. For us, salvation is not just the water, but the Word of God together with the water of our baptism.
Peter reminds his readers that Jesus was also persecuted and suffered. Jesus is the one he points to — the one who overcame not just persecution, but death. On His resurrection, He ascended into heaven.
Suffering comes to all of us in various ways. Much of our suffering is hidden from others and not always acknowledged by ourselves. When we see someone undergoing cancer treatment, we know they are suffering. But when someone is struggling spiritually, mentally or emotionally, it is hidden from us. What we do know is that because Jesus suffered, our suffering is not hidden from Him. He knows us and all our weaknesses.
Our text today is triumphant. Regardless of what suffering we may face, we are not alone. Jesus is with us. The vision we may have is of Jesus walking beside us or holding us in the palm of His hand. The promise and comfort are that we are not alone.
Our baptism reminds us of our victory and the assurance of our triumphal resurrection when Christ returns.
Prayer
Father, I thank You for Your grace and mercy for giving us salvation through Your Son. Always be with me, in good times and bad, and let my suffering in this world be turned into joy at being in Your presence.
Pray, praise, give thanks, and stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike
